Statement by the Prime Minister of Canada on attack in Nairobi, Kenya

Ottawa, Ontario

21 September 2013

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement on the terrorist attack that took place at a shopping mall in Nairobi, Kenya, which has claimed the lives of many, and left many more injured. At this point, we can confirm that two Canadians have died, including one Canadian diplomat.

“Canada condemns in the strongest possible terms this cowardly, hateful act that apparently targeted innocent civilians who were simply out shopping.

“The hearts and prayers of all Canadians go out to the families and friends of all those affected by this senseless tragedy, and we extend our deepest condolences to those suffering the loss of Annemarie Desloges, one of our diplomats who has died in the attack.

“Annemarie Desloges was a distinguished public servant of the Department of Citizenship and Immigration who served in Canada’s High Commission to Kenya, as a liaison officer with the Canada Border Services Agency. She will be remembered and honoured.

Terrorist attacks like this seek to undermine the very values and way of life that Canadians cherish, and they reinforce the need for us to continue taking strong actions to protect the safety of Canadians no matter where they are in the world.

“Acts of terror cannot be allowed to go unpunished. Canadian staff at our mission are offering Kenyan authorities every possible assistance to bring the perpetrators of this heinous attack to justice.